What is Jeans for Genes? Jeans for Genes is the national appeal where everyone across the UK is invited to throw out the usual rules and jump into their jeans in exchange for £1 or more. This year Jeans for Genes Day is on Friday 7th October.
Jeans for Genes, raises funds for research into serious and often life-threatening genetic disorders affecting thousands of children. In the UK, 1 baby in every 33 is born with a genetic disorder or birth defect… that’s one born every 30 minutes whose life could be affected. There are over 4,000 recognised genetic disorders, some of which have no current treatment. Pioneering research to develop such treatments is being funded through Jeans for Genes and is bringing great hope to families.
How will SPARKS spend the money from Jeans for Genes?
The donation from Jeans for Genes will enable SPARKS to fund a vitally important project researching risk factors causing spina bifida. Affecting one in a thousand babies in the UK alone, this condition occurs when a baby’s spine doesn’t form properly during pregnancy. Spina bifida can have devastating effects including; mobility difficulties, bladder and bowel problems and even paralysis. If successful this SPARKS project will enable doctors to identify and treat women at risk of having a baby with spina bifida, potentially eliminating heartbreak for thousands of families.
To read Michael’s story you can download the pdfversion here: 
How can I join in?
It’s really easy to join in the fun on Jeans for Genes Day! You can get your free fundraising packs for companies, schools and individuals by calling 0800 980 4800, by visiting www.jeansforgenes.com or by contacting SPARKS. Please tell all your friends and family about Jeans for Genes too, the more people that join in, the more funds SPARKS will receive.
How else can I help?
1. Talk to schools in your area.
We urgently require volunteers who are willing to speak in schools about the campaign. For more information about registering as a school speaker visit www.jeansforgenes.com/speakers or contact Fiona on 020 7799 2111 or [email protected]
2. Distribute Jeans for Genes publicity materials.
The campaign produces leaflets and posters which can be used to advertise the campaign in local libraries, leisure centres, doctors’ surgeries, dentists etc.
3. Sell Jeans for Genes badges.
You can sell appeal badges to friends, family, colleagues etc. If you would like to sell badges, please contact Fiona on 020 7799 2111 or [email protected]
We hope you will join us by donning your jeans on Jeans for Genes Day in 2005.
Even George is getting in on the act.